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Updated: Aug 10, 2026
Murine Kidney Transplant Technique
Published on: October 20, 2015
Maximum hypothermic ischemia in replants containing muscular tissue
W A van Alphen1, A R Smith, F J ten Kate
1Department of Surgery, University Hospital Rotterdam, Dijkzigt, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Excision and replantation of the latissimus dorsi muscle of the rabbit was done after various periods of hypothermic ischemia (5 degrees C). Sections studied under the light microscope were classified as having minimal changes, slight degenerative changes, severe degenerative changes, or necrosis. In all sections of the 24-hour group total or nearly total necrosis was found. In the 5-, 8-, and 16-hour groups slight degenerative changes and severe degenerative changes, with a severe reactive proliferation of fibroblasts were seen. A sliding scale was found in which severe degenerative changes were seen more often as ischemia time lasted longer. No statistical significance was found between the various groups.
Insights
Investigating latissimus dorsi muscle viability after hypothermic ischemia in rabbits revealed increasing tissue damage with longer ischemia times. Necrosis was observed after 24 hours, with degenerative changes evident earlier.
Area of Science:
- Muscle physiology
- Surgical research
- Tissue regeneration
Background:
- Replantation surgery requires understanding tissue tolerance to ischemia.
- The latissimus dorsi muscle is crucial for reconstructive procedures.
- Hypothermic storage is used to extend tissue viability during ischemia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the histological effects of varying hypothermic ischemia durations on rabbit latissimus dorsi muscle.
- To determine the threshold for irreversible muscle damage and necrosis.
Main Methods:
- Rabbit latissimus dorsi muscles underwent excision and replantation after 5, 8, 16, or 24 hours of hypothermic (5°C) ischemia.
- Muscle sections were microscopically analyzed for degenerative changes and necrosis.
- Fibroblast proliferation was also assessed.
Main Results:
- Complete or near-complete necrosis was observed in all 24-hour ischemia groups.
- Slight to severe degenerative changes and significant fibroblast proliferation were noted in 5-, 8-, and 16-hour groups.
- A trend showed increased degenerative changes with longer ischemia durations, though not statistically significant.
Conclusions:
- Prolonged hypothermic ischemia significantly impacts latissimus dorsi muscle viability.
- Early degenerative changes occur within hours, progressing to necrosis with extended ischemia.
- These findings are critical for optimizing preservation times in muscle replantation surgeries.
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